Africa

2012-11-13

AFRICA/MOZAMBIQUE - More than 130,000 families at the centre of severe famine in the province of Tete

Maputo (Agenzia Fides) - More than 130 000 families are experiencing severe famine in the northwestern province of Tete in Mozambique. The local radio station Radio Mozambique reported that the situation is particularly serious in the district of Cahora Bassa, where people are forced to feed on berries and roots. Tete is rich in corn, but the last crop season has not produced anything in the district. The provincial authorities have urged residents to sell their livestock so they can buy food to survive. The famine was caused by severe drought that hit the country. Other districts that are experiencing this phenomenon since the beginning of the year are Magoe, Mutarara, Zumbo and Moatize.
Food insecurity has improved slightly this year, but several areas still at risk in the southern provinces of Gaza, Maputo and Ingambane, in the central province of Sofala and Nampula in the north have still been reported. About two months ago, the government launched a campaign for greater agricultural production of food to feed those who need it. In addition, to achieve this goal, thousands of tons of seed will be distributed to farmers. Over 1,000 agricultural experts are committed to helping farmers to produce more food in the former Portuguese colony. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 13/11/2012)